Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do I apply for this opportunity?

1. You will need to fill out an application as well as submit your resume and reference letter on the FNL Partnership Trainee Program portal: https://frederick.cancer.gov/Careers/InternshipsAndFellowships/Trainee.

Q. What are the next steps after my application has been submitted?

1. Applications will be reviewed by the FNL Partnership Trainee Program team and mentor(s) of the selected project(s). You will be notified if your application has been selected for a virtual meet and greet with the mentor(s). All students will be notified at the end of the process if they have been matched with a project. If you are matched, you will be transferred to the Human Resources Department to begin the onboarding process.

   You can track the progress of your application on your dashboard via the FNL portal.

Q. Will this summer training opportunity be a paid opportunity?

1. This is not a paid opportunity by FNL. Speak with your institute on stipend or class credit availability.
   

Q. What should I expect from the mentoring relationship at FNL?

1. The summer training program is designed to provide undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to spend a summer working with some of the most talented scientists in the world in an environment devoted exclusively to biomedical research. Mentors are to provide on-going technical guidance and advice, intensity, excitement and sense of discipline. Additionally, trainees will connect and network with other students through organized activities including student seminar series, journal club and poster sessions.

Q. When will the training program start?

1. Training appointments are for approximately 10 weeks during the Summer Term (May through August). This time frame can be flexible, depending on completion of a background check and the mentor and student availability.

Q. What is the time commitment?

1. This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, opportunity. You will work with your mentor to design a schedule that is mutually agreeable.

Q. What if I can only participate for a portion of the appointment period due to other commitments?

1. Participation requires a full-time commitment for the duration of the appointment period. You should plan to be at your appointed FNL facility full time and avoid obligations that will interrupt your training. Training appointments are for approximately 10 weeks during the Summer Term. Flexible start and end dates may be available to you.

Q. Do I get any vacation during my training?

1. The training opportunity does not include vacation leave. You are not expected to be present on days that the FNL is closed due to a holiday (i.e. Memorial Day and Independence Day). Mentor(s) will help you design a schedule that is mutually agreeable.

Q. What additional paperwork is needed for non-us citizen students?

1. The additional paperwork includes the following:
   • A letter from your institute stating: a) it understands that you will be at the FNL for summer training and b) it acknowledges it has taken the necessary steps with the visa office to approve an unpaid trainee off-campus.
   • Visa information for NIH’s Division of International Services (DIS) to clear student for a temporary government badge.